01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 8-K filed January 30, 2026. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) announced its 2026 financial outlook and capital return plans on January 30, 2026.
The company expects its strategic changes and cost structure improvements to fund ongoing business investments for long-term growth, facilitate further reduction of net unsecured debt to Adjusted EBITDA, and enable the return of approximately $55 billiona to stockholders through dividends and share repurchases by the end of 2028. Key components of this plan include a quarterly dividend increase to $0.7075 per share, payable in May 2026, and a new $25 billion share repurchase authorization.
The company intends to repurchase at least $3 billionb in 2026, signaling confidence in its financial strategy and commitment to enhancing shareholder value. These initiatives are underpinned by significant operational changes and a strategic market approach aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and financial flexibility.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Verizon expects to return approximately $55 billion to stockholders through dividends and share repurchases by the end of 2028.
- The quarterly dividend has been increased to $0.7075 per share, representing an annualized increase of $0.07 (2.5%).
- A new $25 billion share repurchase program has been authorized by the Board of Directors.
- Verizon plans to repurchase at least $3 billion of its common stock in 2026 under the new authorization.
- These capital return plans are supported by expected improvements in the company's cost structure and strategic market approach.
- The company anticipates these changes will provide funding for continued business investments and further reduction of net unsecured debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio.
03—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount Verizon plans to return to shareholders by the end of 2028?
Verizon plans to return approximately $55 billion to its stockholders through dividend payments and share repurchases by the end of 2028.
What is the new quarterly dividend amount and when is it payable?
The new quarterly dividend is $0.7075 per share, payable on May 1, 2026, to stockholders of record on April 10, 2026. This represents an annualized increase of $0.07 per share.
What is the size of the new share repurchase program and what is the minimum expected repurchase for 2026?
The Board of Directors has authorized a new share repurchase program for up to $25 billion of common stock. Verizon expects to repurchase at least $3 billion of common stock in 2026 under this authorization.
What is driving Verizon's ability to increase shareholder returns and invest in the business?
The company's ability to fund investments and return capital is driven by significant changes to its cost structure and its strategic approach to the market. These changes are expected to provide the necessary funding for long-term growth and debt reduction.
04—Continue